Scene Calendar: Chris Renzema, 'Beyond Therapy,' 5th Avenue Arts Festival
MUSIC
Me First and the Gimme Gimmes: 7 p.m. Friday, St. Augustine Amphitheatre Backyard Stage, 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine. Tickets: $31.50-$37. (904-209-0367, theamp.com) For the uninitiated, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes is the punk supergroup and cover band extraordinaire of 2024. Consisting of punk legends John Reis, guitarist and lead vocals for Rocket from the Crypt; the celebrated scamp Joey Cape from Lagwagon on guitar; Pinch from The Damned on the skins; Fat Mike, master bassist from NOFX; and CJ Ramone from The Ramones; rounded out by the incomparable crooner Spike Slawson.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The Nancy Luca Band will perform.
Chris Renzema: 8-11 p.m. Friday, Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St. Tickets: $20-$60. (heartwoodsoundstage.com) Citizens will open the show. Chris Renzema was always drawn to writing and playing songs, but his hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, didn’t have much of a music scene. After moving to Nashville in 2015 to pursue a career in music, he’s seen slow but steady success.
Magic of Bronze: 4-5:30 p.m. Saturday, First United Methodist Church, 419 NE First St. Free. (magicofbronze.com) The Central Florida community handbell ensemble will perform "Celestial Cadences,” a space/sci-fi themed concert. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes of their favorite sci-fi or space character. A reception will follow with prizes for best costumes.
Kenny G: 8 p.m. Saturday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $39.50-$99.50. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) The sound of Kenny G’s saxophone is as iconic as his curly coif; indeed, both are instantly recognizable. His latest release, “New Standards” — the title of his 19th studio album, fifth for Concord Records and first since 2015’s “Brazilian Nights” — could well be used to describe his four-decade body of work, a vision of jazz that helped launch both a musical genre and radio format.
Random Kats: 8-10 p.m. Saturday, Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St. Tickets: $15-$20. (heartwoodsoundstage.com) Blending elements of folk, rock, country and swing with tight grooves and soaring solos, the band’s show at Heartwood is certain to be an unforgettable experience. All of the songs for the night will be original material written by members of the band.
Annasemble Community Orchestra: 3 p.m. Sunday, First United Methodist Church, 419 NE First St. Free. (annasemble.org) The Annasemble Community Orchestra will focus on music that celebrates the identities of the peoples in the nation and the world — belonging.
Gator Jam: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Country Way Town Square, 1739 SW 248th Drive, Suite 20, Newberry. Free. (tinyurl.com/gatorjammay24) Live music.
Emo Orchestra: 8 p.m. Tuesday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $30-$60. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) For emo music lovers and orchestra aficionados alike, Emo Orchestra is a new live experience that brings some of the most beloved emo songs of your youth to the theater stage with a full orchestra arrangement.
One Night of Queen: 8 p.m. Wednesday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $35-$55. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Performed by Gary Mullen and the Works recreating the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of Queen — a note-for-note experience of mega-hits such as “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We are the Champions,” “Killer Queen,” “You’re My Best Friend,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “Radio GaGa,” “Under Pressure,” “Another One Bites the Dust” and more.
THEATER
“Beyond Therapy”: 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW Second Ave., Suite O. Tickets: $25 general admission; $20 students, seniors, military and teachers. (acrosstown.org) Bruce and Prudence, two modern, neurotic urbanites searching for love and sanity — with the questionable help of their offbeat therapists. This delightful comedy will keep you laughing as the couple learn to live beyond therapy.
“Into the Woods”: 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 1 p.m. Saturday, PK Yonge Performing Arts Center, 1080 SW 11th St. Tickets: $10-$15. (pkyonge.ufl.edu) The story follows a baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the king’s festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results.
“9 to 5: The Musical”: 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Buchholz High School, 5510 NW 27th Ave. Tickets: $15 general admission, $12 students, $10 group rate, free for BHS faculty. (buchholzdrama.com) Musical based on the 1980 film of the same name, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton. It features a book by Patricia Resnick, based on the screenplay by Resnick and Colin Higgins. The musical ran on Broadway and tours annually in the U.S. and the U.K.
“The SpongeBob Musical”: 2 p.m. Saturday, 7 p.m. May 10, Trenton High School, 1013 N. Main St., Trenton. Tickets: $10, $25 VIP. (trentonhighschooltheatre.com) Based on the Nickelodeon animated television series “SpongeBob SquarePants.”
ET CETERA
Bartram Days: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Visitor Center, 100 Savannah Blvd., Micanopy. Cost: $6 per vehicle. (floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/paynes-prairie-preserve-state-park) Transport back to 1774 when William Bartram was on the great Alachua Savannah. Visitors can meet William Bartram, Trader Job Wiggens and Ahaya the Cowkeeper plus live music, historical re-enactments and more.
Frogs and Friends Friday: 2-3 p.m. Friday, Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Ave. Free; registration required. (bit.ly/frogfriday22) Family friendly event held every first Friday of the month at the picnic pavilion. Kids, accompanied by an adult, can join Morningside’s animal caretaker and learn about the canter’s amphibian and reptile friends.
Mossman Hall First Friday Art Walk: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Mossman Hall, 301 SR 26, Melrose. Free entry; items and food for sale. (mossmanhomepreservationfoundation.com) Featuring The Florida Highwaymen: R.L. Lewis and Curtis Arnette plus art, music, food and more. Complimentary wine and beer.
“Florida Skies (Spring)”: 7 p.m. Fridays through May 31, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $7.19 for adults; $6.17 ages 4-12, ages 60 and older, UF affiliates, military and first responders. (showpass.com/florida-skies-spring-4) Join James Albury, former co-host of the PBS TV Show “Star Gazers,” as he takes you on a personally guided tour of the night sky using the GOTO Chronos Space Simulator.
5th Avenue Arts Festival: All day Saturday-Sunday, Santa Fe College Blount Center, 401 NW Sixth St. Free entry; items and food for sale. (culturalartscoalition.org/annual-5th-ave-arts-festival) On Saturday, the festival officially opens with a gospel program followed by dancers, local bands and singers. Historical exhibits are featured, like “The Rosewood Exhibit,” Black history traveling exhibits from New York and the local Harn Museum exhibits. On Sunday, booths and exhibits open at noon, followed by an afternoon of jazz and reggae on stage from local and national bands.
Run with Purpose 5K: 8-10:30 a.m. Saturday, 24880 NW 16th Ave., Newberry. Cost: $25-$30. (tinyurl.com/rwp5k24) Inaugural run for traumatic injury awareness presented by ProjectOne45, a nonprofit with the mission to support those who have survived traumatic injuries and their families while they are on the road to recovery. Proceeds from this race will go to providing housing support and other costs related to the recovery of trauma survivors.
Great American Cleanup: 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Alachua City Hall, 15100 NW 142nd Terrace, Alachua. Free. (tinyurl.com/gac24a) Annual event encouraging volunteers of all ages to participate, as there will be projects for all skill sets. Breakfast will be provided before the event at 8 a.m., and lunch will be available at its conclusion. Trash bags, safety vests, gloves, maps, instructions and other pertinent tools also will be provided.
Watermelon Pageant: 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Oak View Middle School, 1203 SW 250th St., Newberry. Tickets: $1 general admission, free ages 4 and younger. (tinyurl.com/nwp24) Age divisions are 0- to 4-year-old queen and king, 5- to 13-year-old queen, 13- to 15-year-old queen, and Ms. Teen Queen (ages 16-18). Age categories vary depending on how many contestants sign up. Check-in also varies for each category.
Gainesville Cars and Coffee: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW First Lane, Newberry. Free. (tinyurl.com/gccapril24) Family friendly gathering open to all automotive enthusiasts. Get together for a cup of coffee and show off each other’s vehicles regardless of if it’s an import, exotic, classic or jalopy.
Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Sale: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center, 23100 W. Newberry Road, Newberry. Free entry; items for sale. (tinyurl.com/mgvps24a) Annual sale featuring a variety of herbs, annuals, perennials, natives, trees and more. Master Gardener volunteers will be on site for advice on selection and care of plants, plus plant and gardening presentations and informational booths.
Blueberry Festival: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, 21921 S. U.S. 301, Island Grove. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/igbf24b) All funds raised will contribute directly to the maintenance and improvement of the Cross Creek Volunteer Fire Department. Featuring craft and artisan vendors, blueberry bake sale, blueberry cake contest, kid zone, food trucks, and conveyance to and from Aunt Zelma's U-pick blueberry field.
Living History Saturday: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Ave. Free. (bit.ly/frogfriday22) Interpreters will portray day-to-day life on an 1870 Florida farm.
Spring Festival: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens, 4990 NE 180th Ave., Williston. Cost: $12, general admission, $5 ages 6-13, free ages 5 and younger. (tinyurl.com/sf24g) Annual event in its ninth year featuring rare and unique plants from dedicated vendors, handcrafted treasures, live entertainment and food trucks.
Perkins Home Exhibit: 10 a.m. Saturday, Dudley Farm Historic State Park, 18730 W. Newberry Road, Newberry. Cost: $5 per vehicle, up to eight occupants. (tinyurl.com/phe24b) Event to recognize the Perkins Home being brought onto Dudley Farm as the first step in creating a more complete picture of life on Dudley Farms for white and Black residents alike. The Perkins home was built by the family of Rebecca Perkins, midwife to many of the Dudley children as well as many residents of Jonesville.
Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation Tour: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday, Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation, 8528 E. County Road 225. Tickets: $35 adults, $15 ages 2-11, free ages 1 and younger; $45 motorized-vehicle tours. (carsonspringswildlife.org, 468-2827, [email protected]) Take a tour — on foot or in a tour vehicle — of Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation with big-cat feeding demonstrations and up-close encounters with the animals.
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Guided Tour: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Drive. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 ages 5-13, free for ages 4 and younger; free for members; group rates available. (kanapaha.org) Guided tour of the gardens.
Historic Haile Homestead Tour: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. Sundays, Historic Haile Homestead, 8500 Archer Road. Entrance: $5 ages 12 and older, free ages 11 and younger. (hailehomestead.org) The Historic Haile Homestead is unique in the nation for its "Talking Walls.''
I Heart Art: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, 11016 Lillian Saunders Drive, White Springs. Free entry; items and food for sale. ([email protected]) Traditional arts-and-crafts demonstrations and items for sale. Items range from weaving, painting, wood working, soap making, photography and other handmade items.
Floridiana Show: 10-11 a.m. museum members, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. general public Saturday, Matheson History Museum, 513 E. University Ave. Cost: $5, free ages 14 and younger. (mathesonmuseum.org) The Floridiana Show is back featuring Florida kitsch and vintage Florida from a variety of vendors from Gainesville and around the state.
Two Old Goats Farm and Playtime Open Day: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Two Old Goats Farm and Playtime, 245 Lynne Drive, Hollister. Tickets: $7. (facebook.com/twooldgoatsfarmplaytime) Petting zoo, pony rides, games, farm tour and hay rides. The farm shop also will be open.
Horse Feeding: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Mill Creek Farm Retirement Home for Horses, 20307 NW CR 235A, Alachua. Entrance: Bag of carrots. (millcreekfarm.org) The Retirement Home for Horses provides lifetime care to elderly horses seized by law enforcement agencies, rescued by the SPCA or humane societies, as well as horses retired from government service such as police patrol or state and federal parks.
Spring Festival: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Denmark Acres, 823 SW Wester Drive, Lake City. Tickets: $12.95 plus tax, $10.95 plus tax ages 3-12, free ages 2 and younger. (denmarkacres.com) Family spring event featuring petting zoo, sunflowers, vendors, games, food trucks, music and more.
Mother's Day Market: Noon-5 p.m. Saturday, The AUK Market, 2031 NW Sixth St. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/mdm24d) Specialty goods and gifts on display including handmade art, jewelry, plants, mid-century vintage and more. Dog-friendly event.
May Faire and Music Festival: Noon-8 p.m. Saturday, Heritage Park and Mossman Hall, 301 SR 26, Melrose. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/mfamf24a) Music festival, maypole dancing, car show, vendors, food trucks, petting zoo and kids’ activities.
Tioga Movie Night: 7:30-10 p.m. Saturday, Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW First Lane, Newberry. Free. (tiogatowncenter.com) “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” Thirty years after the Battle of Endor, a new threat has risen in the form of the First Order and the villainous Kylo Ren. Meanwhile, Rey, a young scavenger, discovers powers that will change her life — and possibly save the galaxy.
Gainesville Oddities Market: Noon-5 p.m. Sunday, Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/gommay24) Celebrating Cinco De Mayo with a Day of the Dead festival featuring 87 vendors selling taxidermy, bugs, bones, antiques, crystals, clothing/fashion, jewelry and more plus food trucks, live music and entertainment.
Sweetwater Wetlands Park Ranger-Led Hikes: 1:30-2:30 p.m. Sunday, Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 Williston Road. Cost: $5 per vehicle, $2 pedestrians and buses. (sweetwaterwetlands.org, 554-5871) Short guided walk that covers the history, function and ecosystem of the park.
Sweetwater Wetlands Park Wednesday Bird Walks: 8:30-11 a.m. Wednesdays through May 29, Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 SW Williston Road. Admission: $5 per vehicle; $2 for pedestrians, vans and bikes. (alachuaaudubon.org) Discover the rich diversity of birds at one of north central Florida's premier birding hotspots during a two- to three-hour guided walking tour. Birders of all levels welcome. Walks are led by volunteers from Alachua Audubon Society with assistance from Sweetwater Wetlands Park rangers.
Barnyard Buddies: 3-4 p.m. Wednesdays through May 29, Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Ave. Free. (bit.ly/barnbuds) Weekly program where youngsters, with an adult, can meet and greet farm animals by helping staff with afternoon feeding. Animals love donations of carrots, squash, apples, sweet potatoes and melons..
ART
Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention: “Shaped By Water,” a juried art exhibition, on display through Sunday. The creative works in this exhibition explore how Florida is “Shaped by Water,” literally and figuratively, on canvas, photo, sculpture, and screen; “Imagination in Motion: Animation and Optical Illusions,” a world of endless possibilities where reality blurs and creativity takes center stage. Unveil the secrets of animation’s evolution, immerse yourself in optical illusions and discover the science behind your favorite animated films; “Reel Revolution: The Rise of Animation,” where attendees can explore how the future of animation is being shaped within the minds of visionaries just like them. Step through time to uncover the origins of some of the most well-loved movies, shows and characters of all time. Tickets: $12.50, $10 seniors and college students, $7.50 ages 5-17, free ages 4 and younger. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. 811 N. Main St. (371-8001, cademuseum.org)
Cedar Key Arts Center: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through May 28 CKAC Members Art Sale 2024; 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday Adult Sewing Help with Bunny Hand. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 457 Second St., Cedar Key. (543-5801, cedarkeyartscenter.org)
Gainesville Fine Arts Association Gallery: “Disruption” on display through May 25; “Weeklong Solo/Curated Shows and Member Postcards” on display May 28-June 22; “Summer Showcase 2024” on display June 25-July 20; “Hair” on display July 23-Aug. 24; “Biennial National Juried Exhibition — Heat” on display Aug. 27-Oct. 19; “Nostalgia” on display Oct. 22-Nov. 23; “Winter Showcase 2024” on display Nov. 26-Dec. 20. Gallery hours are 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. 1314 S. Main St. (gainesvillefinearts.org, [email protected])
Harn Museum of Art: “Surrealism at the Harn,” a centennial celebration, on display through June 2; “Gateway to Himalayan Art” on display through July; “Windows and Mirrors,” staff selections from the photography collection, on display through Nov. 3; “Metamorphosis: Reshaping Contemporary Art,” featuring artists who are rethinking traditional materials and techniques to create innovative works of art, on display through Oct. 26, 2025. Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 3259 Hull Road. (392-9826)
Lanza Gallery and Art Supplies: “Santa Fe Plein Air Paintout” paintings on display through Saturday. 23645 W. U.S. 27, High Springs. (lanzagallery.com, 474-1049)
Matheson History Museum: “Return to Forever: Gainesville’s Great Southern Music Hall,” showcasing dozens of John Moran‘s performance photos from his two years as the Great Southern Music Hall house photographer. Also featured is a display of Bo Diddley artifacts, including one of Bo’s signature square box guitars. Written by music journalist Bill DeYoung and designed by historian Rick Kilby, this unique exhibit celebrates a golden age in the University City’s musical history, the likes of which may never be seen again. On display through June 8; “Weaving a Community: 30 Years of the Matheson History Museum,” an all-encompassing view of the Matheson’s history and its origins; “When Johnny Came Marching Home: Some Gave All – All Gave Some,” remembering those who came home from war with both physical and mental wounds, on display outside. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. 513 E. University Ave. (378-2280, mathesonmuseum.org)
Melrose Bay Art Gallery: Works by Julie Robitaille on display through May 26, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Friday; Works by Carron Wedlund on display June 1-30, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. June 7; July featured artist TBA July 5-28, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. July 5; August featured artist Linda Zidonik Aug. 2-25, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Aug. 2; Works by Candace McCaffery on display Aug. 31-Sept. 29, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Sept. 6; Works by Kay Deuben on display Oct. 4-27, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Oct. 4; Special Pre-Holiday Gifts Show to be held Nov. 1-10, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Nov. 3; 2024 Holiday Invitational to be held Nov. 16-Dec. 29, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Dec. 6. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday or by appointment. 103 State Road 26, Melrose. (475-3866, melrosebayartgallery.com)
Santa Fe College’s Blount Hall: A large art collection from local collector Hector Puig on display. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Corner of West University Avenue and North Sixth Street.
UPCOMING CONCERTS
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. May 10, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Crooked Counsel will perform ’60s and ’70s rock.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. May 11, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Richy Stano and Mindwalk will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. May 17, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Michael Claytor and Ricky Kendell will perform.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. May 24, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Orbiter, Chimes and Shehehe will perform.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. May 31, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The Impostors, a Beatles cover band, will perform.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. June 7, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Mindwalk will perform contemporary jazz.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. June 8, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Gruv Therapy will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. June 14, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Loosey’s Downtown Showcase.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. June 21, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Little Wings Studio Showcase.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. June 28, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Mei, Now Leaving Space and The Mermers will perform.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. July 5, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Pet Detectives will perform ’90s alt-rock covers.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. July 12, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The ox Showcase featuring Short Stack, Cooper and Wiley Gaby.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. July 13, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) D.R. Band and Soul Fire will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. July 19, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The Gainesville Big Band will perform jazz/swing.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. July 26, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) MusicGNV Showcase: Tribute to Gainesville Bands.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 2 Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) TBD.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 9, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Stereo Vudu will perform rock, blues and funk.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 10, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Swing Theory will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 16, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) D.R. Band and Soul Fire will perform R&B, neo-soul and funk.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 23, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) PULP Arts Showcase.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 30, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The Lions of Jah will perform reggae.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 6, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) FEST 22 Showcase.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 13, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) TBD.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 14, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Brazil Side B will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 20, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Morningbell will perform psychedelic rock and soul.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 27, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Savants of Soul will perform soul.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Oct. 12, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Marty Liquori Jazztet will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Nov. 9, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Ed Roth Trio will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Dec. 14, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Natalie Rella Jazz will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
UPCOMING EVENTS
World Tree Kangaroo Day: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. May 18, Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $10 general admission; $6 ages 4-12, ages 60 and older, active military and veterans, teachers, police, firefighters, first responders, EMT/EMS, health care workers (all with valid ID), UF students and staff with current Gator1 ID; $3 Electronics Benefits Transfer recipients (up to four total tickets with card, any combination of adults/children); free ages 3 and younger, SF Students, staff and retirees (with current SFID), and zoo members. (sfcollege.edu) Celebrate Matschie’s tree kangaroo, an endangered species native to a small area of Papua New Guinea. Plus kangaroo-themed crafts and games.
“Fire and Ice”: 1 p.m. May 18, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $23 general admission, $20 ages 3-11, free ages 2 and younger. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Dance Sun Country presents their 17th annual recital, featuring the theme “Fire and Ice” with approximately 45 dances. Many dance styles will be featured, including classical ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, hip-hop, modern, musical theatre, lyrical, contemporary dance and clogging.
Sunday Assembly: 11 a.m. May 19, Pride Center located in the Springhill Professional Center, 3850 NW 83rd St., Suite 201. Free. ([email protected], sagainesville.weebly.com) Sunday Assembly will host Rick Gold, who has participated in and provided leadership to the Humanistic Judaism movement for 25 years. He is a board member of the Society for Humanistic Judaism. After moving to Gainesville in 2014, Gold has served as lead volunteer for the Gainesville Humanistic Judaism Community and Florida Jews for a Secular Democracy. The title of his talk will be “The Institutions of the Humanistic Judaism Movement.” Music will be provided by Sunday Assembly musicians with the opportunity to sing along. It also is possible to attend via Zoom.
“Treasure Island”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays May 24-June 9, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $24 general admission, $20 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) Picture a world where pirates rule what we call Earth. Humanity’s desire to find hidden treasures will take them to heights they never imagined. Based on the masterful adventure novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, “Treasure Island” is an epic adventure from Ken Ludwig. It begins at an inn on the Devon coast of England, and quickly becomes an unforgettable tale of treachery and mayhem featuring a host of legendary swashbucklers including the dangerous Billy Bones, the sinister two-timing Israel Hands, the brassy woman pirate Anne Bonny, and the hideous form of evil incarnate Blind Pew. Sail the vastness of space to find Captain Flint’s treasure in this coming-of-age tale that is out of this world! Join Jim Hawkins as he navigates the universe longing for adventure with the infamous Long John Silver, perhaps the most famous hero-villain of all time. Silver’s greedy quest for gold, coupled with his affection for Jim, cannot help but win the heart of every soul who has ever longed for romance, treasure and adventure.
“Cabaret”: 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays June 7-23, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW Second Ave., Suite O. Tickets: $25 general admission; $20 students, seniors, military and teachers. (acrosstown.org) In a Berlin nightclub, as the 1920s draw to a close, a garish master of ceremonies welcomes the audience and assures them they will forget all of their troubles at the Cabaret. With the emcee’s bawdy songs as wry commentary, “Cabaret” explores the dark, heady and tumultuous life of Berlin’s natives and expatriates as Germany slowly yields to the emerging Third Reich. Cliff, a young American writer newly arrived in Berlin, is immediately taken with English singer Sally Bowles.
“Dead Man’s Cellphone”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays June 7-30, High Springs Playhouse, 23416 NW 186 Ave., High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) An incessantly ringing cellphone in a quiet cafe. A stranger at the next table who has had enough. And a dead man — with a lot of loose ends. So begins “Dead Man’s Cellphone,” a wildly imaginative new comedy by Sara Ruhl. A work about how we memorialize the dead — and how that remembering changes us.
Brew at the Zoo: 4-7 p.m. June 8, Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, 3000 Northwest 83rd St. Tickets: $60, $25 for non-drinkers. (showpass.com/brewatthezoo2024) For ages 21 and older. All ticket sales include admission to the zoo, animal encounters, beer and food tastings, live entertainment, food trucks, games and commemorative souvenir cup. All funds raised will directly support the zoo and its mission to educate, inspire and secure a future for wildlife. Held rain or shine.
“In The Heights”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays July 19-Aug. 11, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $24 general admission, $20 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) “In the Heights,” created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood — a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It’s a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can decide which traditions you take with you and which ones you leave behind.
“The Wizard of Oz — Youth Edition”: 7 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays July/August, High Springs Playhouse, 23416 NW 186 Ave., High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) Join Dorothy and her loyal companion Toto as they “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” through the Land of Oz, determined to reach the Emerald City, where the great and powerful Wizard of Oz will help them get home. Of course, along the way, Dorothy encounters witches (both good and bad), Munchkins, talking trees and winged monkeys. But most importantly, she befriends three unique characters: a scarecrow with no brain, a tin man with no heart, and a lion with no “nerve.” Their journey to happiness — and self-awareness — is a glowing testament to friendship, understanding and hope in a world filled with both beauty and ugliness.
Black Business Expo: Time TBA July 20, Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St. Free entry; registration requested. (GBPinc.org) Event dedicated to celebrating and promoting the achievements of Black-owned businesses in the community.
Zach Williams and Tim Tebow: 7 p.m. Sept. 5, O’Connell Center, 250 Gale Lemerand Drive. Ticket prices vary; see website for more information. (tinyurl.com/williamstebow) An evening of worship and inspiration, with a message of love, hope and God’s grace highlighting the importance of persevering in Christ through life’s challenges.
This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Scene Calendar: Magic of Bronze, 'Into the Woods,' Floridiana Show
